Be sure to read Part I of this series to learn about emissions requirements in the SCAQMD.
In the last edition of Boiler Blog 101, we discussed air permitting rules and regulations in the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). In part II, we will cover the basics of air permitting for boilers in another California district that leads the country in air pollution control; the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District (SJVAPCD).
The SJVAPCD was founded in 1991 with a mission to improve the health and quality of life for all Valley residents through efficient, effective and entrepreneurial air quality management strategies. The SJVAPCD is made up of eight counties in the Central Valley of California; San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and Kern.
The rules that have been set forth specifically for boilers, steam generators, and process heaters are outlined below:
| QUALIFYING UNITS | NOx LIMIT | |
| Rule 4306 | Units Greater Than 5 MMBtu/hr Units Greater Than 20 MMBtu/hr |
15 ppm 9 ppm |
| Rule 4307 | Units 2.0 MMBtu/hr to 5.0 MMBtu/hr | 30 ppm |
| Rule 4308 | Units 0.075 MMBtu/hr to Less Than 2.0 MMBtu/hr | 20 ppm |
| ADVANCED EMISSION REDUCTION OPTIONS | ||
| Units Greater Than 5 MMBtu/hr Units Greater Than 20 MMBtu/hr |
9 ppm 7 ppm |
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| *NOx limits listed are standard options for existing gaseous fuel-fired equipment. Enhanced options as well as limits for new and replacement units will differ. Click each rule to review the full details; certain exemptions may apply. |
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Starting at the beginning of 2019, the SJVAPCD implemented a new rule titled, Best Available Control Technology (BACT). This rule requires that all new permits meet the lowest NOx limits that have been achieved, regardless of what is mandated. In addition, due to Assembly Bill 617, boiler owners in the SJVAPCD are mandated to meet Best Available Retrofit Control Technology (BARCT) for any existing equipment retrofits. This means that when your boiler needs to be upgraded or replaced, it must meet more stringent NOx limits, which can be as low as 7 ppm.
These rules can be overwhelming, which is why Nationwide Boiler’s AQMD experts are capable and ready to assist you with the permitting process needed for your facility. Furthermore, we can help you reduce NOx to comply with your air emissions regulations. Nationwide Boiler’s CataStak™ SCR system is proven to reduce NOx levels to as low as 2.5 ppm. Contact us today for more details.
Stay tuned for Part III, where we will discuss renting boilers in California.